A step by step guide on how to prepare the ground and laying carpet stones including tools required and tips for success from our friends over at Bradstone.
Cobble Carpet Stones are suitable for laying as a domestic driveway.
Allin ballast, building and sharp sand is available from Capelles.
STEP 1: Excavate the area and lay a concrete base between 100 to 150mm deep depending on the firmness of the ground.
STEP 2: Lay Carpet Stones on a 35mm deep bed of 5 parts sharp sand to 1 part cement.
STEP 3: Compact with a vibrating mechanical plate fitted with a rubber sole (this will avoid marking).
STEP 4: Brush a slightly moist mix of 3 parts sharp sand to 1 part cement into the joints.
STEP 5: Repeat step 3.
STEP 6: Brush any excess off the stones.
Carpet Stones patio
STEP 1: Dig the foundations. You should go at least 150mm below the damp proof course, plus the thickness of the paving plus another 75mm. Ensure water cannot collect besides buildings by allowing a slight fall away to a convenient place.
STEP 2: Cover the entire area with a semidry foundation mix of 6 parts sharp sand to 1 part cement. This should be 75mm deep. Compact and level the area. It is recommended that a maximum of 3m x 3m is levelled at any one time.
STEP 3: Lay the Carpet Stones as required, making sure the joints are evenly spaced. Use a rubber mallet to ensure the stones are well bedded into the foundation. Alternatively, you can use a 75mm x 50mm piece of timber with the rubber mallet. Use a spirit level to ensure the paving is level.
For a more realistic look you can interlock the Cobble Carpet Stones by cutting the half blocks. The Random Carpet Stones are also designed to be interlocked by simply cutting out the centre stone and turning the cut pieces 90 ̊ to join the mats together.
STEP 4: After 24 hours, brush a mix of 4 parts sharp sand to 1 part cement into the joints. The mix should be dry enough not to leave stains on the surface of the stones. If you prefer, you can point the joints using a semidry mortar mix of 3 parts building sand to 1 part cement. Again, this mix should not be too wet or too dry.
For a more rustic effect you could simply lay on a 50mm bed of sharp sand and brush in more sand or sieved soil to fill the joints.
Why not download the Bradstone Laying a Patio Circle Guide to take on site: